Log Truck Accident Knocks Out Power, Renews Urgency For Road Repairs

ST. FLORIAN, Ala. (WHNT) – An accident shut down a Shoals highway for hours Wednesday morning.

This isn’t the first time a wreck happened at the busy intersection in St. Florian.

Now residents hope this crash comes as a wake up call to county leaders.

People want a traffic light and wider roads, to keep cars moving smoothly.

Authorities said an 18-wheeler hauling logs couldn’t maneuver the wide turn and according to authorities the veteran truck driver clipped a utility pole sitting feet from Highway 43.

With this accident, comes a renewed sense of urgency for road repairs.

“I think it`s been put off for a while, but people don`t realize what a problem we have out here,” said St. Florian mayor, Don Strait. “I think if they come out and see what we faced this morning they can see how dangerous it is.”

The truck knocked out power for hours, which takes a toll on business in this small town. As crews worked to repair the power pole, the Drink Box sits empty.

According to the restaurant owner, he can’t afford for these wrecks to keep happening, and neither can the city.

“When it affects me, the city does not get tax revenue so they continue to hurt,” said owner Jimmy Czermak.

With another crash recorded, community members say they plan to make a final plea to the county commission for a traffic light, at this accident prone intersection.

The truck driver from Oakley Equipment was not hurt in the accident.

Trucking officials say they plan to re-route their drivers until road improvements are made, in order to keep everyone safe.